Certificate in The Effective Teacher
Hours: 9 Online
About
The Certificate in The Effective Teacher program at Fort Hays State University is a fully online, 9-credit graduate certificate designed for licensed teachers who want to enhance their teaching skills and advance their careers. This program is part of the broader MSE in Education (Curriculum & Instruction) offering. It is tailored for educators seeking to improve their instructional practices and earn a graduate-level credential. The certificate mirrors one of the four tracks available in the master's program, providing focused, practical training without state licensure.
Why pursue a Certificate in The Effective Teacher at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in The Effective Teacher program at Fort Hays State University is uniquely designed to cater to the professional development needs of licensed educators. Unlike other programs that may require on-campus attendance or additional licensure, our program is entirely online, offering maximum flexibility for working teachers. The curriculum is grounded in current educational research and best practices, ensuring you gain relevant and actionable skills to enhance your teaching effectiveness.
Moreover, the program is structured to provide immediate benefits in the classroom. Each course is tailored to address critical areas of instructional improvement, from leadership and technology integration to effective teaching strategies. This practical approach helps you to implement what you learn directly into your teaching practice, making an immediate impact on your students' learning experiences.
Who is this program for?
This program caters to educators passionate about integrating technology into their classrooms, developing leadership capabilities, and creating inclusive learning environments. It offers a flexible online format that allows working professionals to balance their educational pursuits with their career and personal responsibilities. As a result, the Certificate in The Effective Teacher program is ideal for:
- Licensed teachers seeking to improve their teaching skills
- Educators interested in integrating technology into their classrooms
- Teachers aiming to develop leadership skills in educational settings
- Educators looking for flexible, online professional development opportunities
Learning Outcomes
The Certificate in The Effective Teacher program at Fort Hays State University is designed to equip educators with advanced skills and knowledge for fostering student success. Through a comprehensive curriculum, participants will develop expertise in instructional design, technology integration, and educational leadership. The following learning outcomes ensure graduates are well-prepared to create effective, inclusive, and engaging learning environments in diverse education:
Design Effective Instructional Units
You will learn to design, peer review, and field-test research-based instructional units that enhance student learning and engagement using the latest educational theories and practices.
Develop Educational Projects
You will create and execute approved educational projects to improve schools through research-based designs. These projects will help you understand the principles and concepts necessary for academic improvement.
Integrate Technology in Teaching
You will learn to develop project-based learning projects that integrate relevant research and best practices in instructional technology. These projects can then be replicated and implemented in your classroom to enhance student learning through technology.
Real-World Applications
The Certificate in The Effective Teacher program equips you with the skills to make a tangible difference in your classroom. Through courses like AEP 855 Educational Leadership, you will develop leadership skills for creating a positive and productive learning environment. This course emphasizes developing strategic planning and decision-making skills crucial for leading educational initiatives and improving school performance.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The Certificate in The Effective Teacher program's curriculum is constantly updated to reflect the latest educational research and technology advancements. Courses are designed to ensure you are well-versed in contemporary teaching methods and technological tools. For instance, TESS 822, The Effective Teacher, focuses on innovative teaching strategies that promote student engagement and achievement.
Practical Activities
The Certificate in The Effective Teacher program emphasizes practical, applied learning experiences. In AEP 855 Educational Leadership, students engage in a wide range of activities to apply leadership theories and practices in real-world educational settings. These projects will help you develop and refine your leadership skills through practical application.
Similarly, in MIT 806 Developing Web-based Instruction, you will create web-based instructional units that can be implemented in your teaching practice. These interactive activities ensure you gain practical skills directly applicable to your teaching role, further enabling you to implement effective teaching strategies and technologies in your classroom.
What You’ll Learn:
- Design research-based instructional units
- Create educational projects
- Understand cultural diversity in education
- Develop project-based learning projects
- Revise or develop curricula
How You’ll Learn:
- Peer review and field test units
- Educational projects
- Labs showcasing diverse teaching strategies
- Lessons that integrate instructional technology
- Real-world curriculum projects
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,385.45* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate ($265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers a variety of programs that complement the Certificate in The Effective Teacher program, providing additional opportunities for professional growth and specialization. These related programs span various educational fields, allowing educators to tailor their learning experiences to their career goals and interests:
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Effective Teacher)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - Exceptional and Diverse Learners)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum & Instruction – STEM)
- Master of Science in Education (Curriculum and Instruction - The Science of Language and Literacy)
- Certificate in Exceptional and Diverse Learners (Graduate non-degree)
- Certificate in Science of Language and Literacy (Graduate non-degree)
- M.S. in Special Education (Gifted)
Information about the Department of Advanced Education Programs
FHSU’s Department of Advanced Education Programs (AEP) is one of the most diverse and comprehensive departments, offering a wide range of programs designed to fit the unique needs of educators at every stage of their careers. Whether you aim to enhance your teaching skills, pursue a role as a building principal or community counselor, add an endorsement, or renew your license, our department is dedicated to helping you succeed in your aspirations.
AEP aims to be the leader in preparing inclusive educational and community professionals to unlock innovative potential in a rapidly advancing world, by preparing global leaders who serve in these settings. Our programs focus on the interaction among innovative technologies, relevant content, diversity, and best practices.